A heartbreaking incident occurred on March 28, 2022, where a four-year-old girl lost her life in a devastating rollover accident in Boerne, Texas. The catastrophe was made even more tragic by the fact that the girl's car seat, along with those of her two-year-old and infant siblings, was not correctly installed, leading to their ejection from the vehicle. The tragedy resulted in the immediate loss of the young girl's life, while her two siblings sustained serious injuries such as a broken neck and hip, leading to urgent hospitalization.
Such heartbreaking incidents emphasize the danger and frequency of improperly installed car seats. In the United States, car accidents have unfortunately emerged as the leading cause of death among children. Despite most parents diligently following the law by using child safety seats, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports a startling statistic that 59% of all car seats are not installed correctly. According to Texan law, failing to properly secure a child can result in a penalty of up to $250. These regulations are crucial as children under the age of eight, or those shorter than 4 feet 9 inches, are not adequately protected by seatbelts designed for adults due to their smaller size and weight. This can put them at significant risk during accidents, either by ejection from the vehicle or by sustaining severe injuries. The correct installation of car seats can mitigate these risks, offering a safer environment for children during car travel.
Unsure whether your child's car seat is properly installed? TxDOT professionals who specialize in car seat safety can offer their assistance, completely free of charge. You can schedule a virtual or in-person session at Savemewithaseat.org to ensure your child's safety.
If you or your loved ones, including children, have suffered serious injuries or loss of life due to an accident in Texas, obtaining expert legal counsel is critical. Experienced car accident lawyers and auto accident attorneys can help you navigate the complexities of personal injury law and ensure that your rights are protected. These injury lawyers are well versed in a wide range of cases including auto accidents, slip and fall, pedestrians, premises liability, and medical malpractice. Whether you need a truck accident lawyer, motorcycle accident lawyer, or an accident attorney in general, it's important to reach out as soon as possible since the statute of limitations can vary. Many legal representatives offer free initial consultations, which provides an opportunity to assess your situation without any initial financial commitment. So, if you're looking to seek justice for any personal injury in Texas, don't hesitate to seek legal aid immediately.